Beth says they decided to do something special for the family Friday night when calling hours were held because they knew it would be a difficult time for them.

Around 5:30 p.m. they battled through heavy snow squalls to place more 100 luminaries on Meadow Lane and several other surrounding streets in Westlake; so that the Massa’s would feel surrounded by love and light when they returned from the funeral home.

Green and white ribbons to represent “Westlake pride” were also tied around trees and street light posts.

“There are no words to comfort them,” said Beth, “But if this small little thing gives them a bright spot of the day that’s really all we wanted.”

Friends Jacob Plocica and Megan Adornetto also helped out in the effort and remembered Nick as charismatic, kind and hilarious guy who was always smiling.

They say the burial Saturday will be extremely painful for everyone in this tight knit neighborhood but they want Nick’s family to know they will always be there to offer support.

Kent police have arrested and charged two teenagers in connection with the murder and are still looking for the third suspect.